Important update on Devolution

We are writing to you with an update on Devolution plans for Greater Essex. 

Following council meetings and executive decisions earlier in January, Essex County Council, alongside Southend-on-Sea City Council and Thurrock Council wrote to the Minister for Local Government to request participation in the government’s Priority Programme for Devolution.  

On 5 February 2025 we received confirmation from the Government that Essex is one of areas to have been accepted onto the programme. 

The government has also confirmed that the elections scheduled for May this year for Essex County Council and Thurrock Council will be suspended. 

Work will also go ahead with a view to developing proposals on Local Government Reorganisation in Greater Essex, with initial proposals on new unitary authority structures expected to be submitted later in the Spring. 

We will now work together and with the Government in terms of next steps on Devolution. We will keep you updated on progress and any key developments. 

If you would like to find out more about Devolution, there are news items and a useful set of frequently asked questions on the ECC website at:https://www.essex.gov.uk/about-council/plans-and-strategies/our-vision-essex/devolution-and-local-government-reorganisation